Duckie Thot is a model and a role model. You’ve probably seen her face everywhere: She is a global ambassador for L’Oreal Paris, has starred in campaigns for Moschino and Balmain, is a muse for the Fenty Beauty collection, and a Victoria’s Secret angel.

While her striking features have catapulted her to the top of the industry, at times, they were also a challenge. The Australian native has been vocal about the struggles of being a model of color in fashion. She revealed to Allure last year that even at the height of her career, she still had to bring along her own foundation to shoots to accommodate for makeup artists who don’t carry product in her shades. She also opened up about her struggle finding hair stylists who knew how to work with her natural hair on set.

Now, Thot aims to change the industry for the better. We caught up with the supermodel to hear how she’s fighting for diversity, and her plans to branch out beyond her role as a model.

Tell us a little bit about yourself. Where are you from? What is your earliest fashion memory?

I was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. My parents are from South Sudan. They were fleeing the civil war and moved to Australia as refugees. When I was younger, my sister modeled for a short period of time so my earliest fashion memory is watching her on set.

How did you become a model? What drew you to the fashion industry?

I gained some experience and exposure from modeling in Australia. I then traveled to New York to find an agency to represent me and with hopes that I would model professionally full-time.

I’ve always admired the amount of work that goes behind shooting fashion photography. There are so many different components that create fashion images and being able to separate and identify with the different components has helped me further understand my role as a model.

What has been your most memorable runway show, editorial shoot, or campaign you’ve done so far? What’s been your “pinch-me” moment?

It was truly a pinch-me moment to walk for the Valentino couture show at the beginning of this year. Growing up, I’ve always been a fan of the Valentino house. To walk alongside so many black models for the first time at a couture show was truly a memorable moment for me.

What are your most favorite and least favorite parts about modeling?

My favorite part about modeling is traveling, seeing the world and experiencing different cultures. As well as, being able to create images with people I’ve loved and admired my whole life. My least favorite part is not being able to come home to Australia and see my family as much as I would like to.

How would you describe your style?

I’ve always liked dressing in basics but now, working in fashion, I definitely love to experiment with color, pattern, and texture more than ever.

Who is your fashion inspiration?

My fashion inspiration is constantly changing and evolving. I like to look at different stylists for inspiration. I love how their minds are able to curate looks that express individuality.

Do you have a model role model?

Gisele Bundchen and Tyra Banks. They’re both great models and amazing businesswomen which I aspire to be.

Can you share one of your beauty secrets?

My beauty secret is definitely drinking a lot of water. I can’t emphasize the importance of water. It’s hydrating, maintains clear skin and I feel it works wonders for my body.

Why is diversity and inclusion so important to you?

As a young black woman in the fashion industry, diversity is important on all levels – from behind the scenes to in front of the camera. It is important to have all walks of life contribute to the industry.

What’s one thing about the modeling industry you hope will change?

Models work extremely hard but I can’t say we have rules and regulations that fully support our needs.

What’s the next step in your career? Are there any goals you hope to accomplish?

I love modeling as my core, but I want to branch out into the entertainment industry. Most importantly, I really want to go back to my motherland and get to know more issues we face so I can help in the best way I can.

Photographer: Griffin Lipson

Fashion Editor: Nicky Campbell

Makeup: Slater Stanley

Hair: Jenni Wimmerstedt